The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has declared a vacancy in the Office of Judge of the Supreme Court.

The announcement was made through a special issue of the Kenya Gazette dated January 13, 2026, and signed by Chief Justice Martha Koome.

Applicants must hold a law degree from a recognised university or equivalent qualifications for admission as an advocate in a Commonwealth common-law jurisdiction and must have at least 15 years of post-admission experience as a superior court judge, distinguished legal academic, judicial officer, or legal practitioner, whether in Kenya or abroad.

Candidates must also demonstrate high moral character, integrity, impartiality, professional competence, and a commitment to public service.

Interested and qualified individuals are invited to apply via the JSC jobs portal at https://jsc.go.ke/jobs/.

Retirement and remuneration

Based on the guidelines issued by the Salaries and Remuneration Commission of Kenya, the gross monthly remuneration package, excluding benefits, is a minimum of Ksh 956,192 and a maximum of Ksh 1,268,996.

Judges serve up to 70 years but have the option of retiring at 65 years in accordance with Article 167(1) of the Constitution.

The Supreme Court of Kenya comprises seven judges; however, it currently has six members following the death of Justice Mohammed Ibrahim on 17 December 2025 after a long illness.

The bench is led by Chief Justice Martha Koome and Deputy Chief Justice Philomena Mwilu. Other members are Justices Njoki Ndung’u, who is now a member of the Judicial Service Commission (JSC), Smokin Wanjala, Isaac Lenaola, and William Ouko.

The JSC, established under Article 171(2) of the Constitution, is tasked with managing and overseeing the Judiciary.

Its membership includes the Chief Justice as Chairperson, a Supreme Court Judge, Court of Appeal Judge, a High Court Judge and Magistrate, the Attorney General, two advocates, a Public Service Commission nominee, and two members who are not lawyers, appointed by the President with approval from the National Assembly to represent the public interest.

The Chief Registrar of the Judiciary serves as Secretary to the Commission.

JSC has already commenced interviews for the recruitment of 15 judges of the Court of Appeal.